Avatiu, Cook Islands
Museums
If you're in Avatiu, Cook Islands and interested in visiting museums, a great place to start would be the Cook Islands National Museum located in Avarua. It features exhibits on the history and culture of the Cook Islands, including traditional artifacts, photographs, and art. Other museums in Rarotonga include the Te Ara Museum at Muri Beach, which focuses on the island's natural history, and the Whale & Wildlife Centre in Atiu, which highlights the local marine life.
Food
The Cook Islands cuisine features a mix of Polynesian, European, and Asian influences. Here are some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat according to local people in Avatiu and throughout the Cook Islands:
1. Ika Mata - This is a raw fish salad made with fresh tuna marinated in coconut cream, lime juice, and diced vegetables.
2. Rukau - A dish made with taro leaves cooked in coconut cream, served as a side dish.
3. Eke - Octopus, grilled or boiled, often served with taro.
4. Poke - A traditional Polynesian dish made with mashed taro and coconut cream.
5. Kai kai - Traditional Cook Island feast, consisting of roasted pig, chicken, fish or lamb, served with sweet potato, taro, and other root vegetables.
6. Pawpaw Salad - A refreshing salad made with papaya, cucumber, and tomato, dressed with lime juice and salt.
7. Coconut Bread - A sweet bread made with coconut milk, flour, and sugar, often served for breakfast.
These are just some of the many delicious dishes you can try in Avatiu and throughout the Cook Islands.
Activities
Some fun activities that local people enjoy in Avatiu, Cook Islands and the surrounding areas include:
1. Swimming and snorkeling at the beautiful Muri Lagoon
2. Attending a cultural show or traditional dance performance at Te Vara Nui Village
3. Exploring the ancient marae sites, which are sacred meeting places of the Maori people
4. Visiting the Punanga Nui Market in Avarua to sample local food and crafts
5. Taking a hike to the top of Raemaru Mountain for breathtaking views of the island.
